One thing Norwich and Norfolk certainly aren’t short of is history. From the Normans to the Victorians to World War II to today, our city and county are packed with incredible buildings, fascinating stories and proud people.
Luckily for us, for almost 2 weeks every year, we can explore these amazing places for FREE! Thanks to Norfolk Heritage Open Days (12 – 21 September)– coordinated by The Forum– a whole new world is opened up to us through tours, exhibitions, talks, re-enactments and more! Some events need to be pre-booked, but many you can just drop-in. Think of all the amazing spots- both well-known and hidden gems- you’ll get to discover.
We spoke to Millie Batch, Events Marketing Producer at The Forum, to find out more about Norfolk Heritage Open Days 2025!
Image: Keiron Tovell
Discover more about Norwich and Norfolk with a walking tour! Image: Luke Witcomb
Norfolk HODs is a collaboration between hundreds of venues, organisers, community partners and volunteers who work to bring the festival to life.
HODs gives thousands of visitors, free access to unique experiences! You can explore heritage sites, discover hidden gems not normally open to the public and learn more about the cultural heritage in our communities. We’re proud to be coordinating such an important festival, which makes heritage accessible for all.
It’s also completely free for organisations and individuals to take part in HODs – there’s no cost to register or participate. Taking part in the festival offers a range of opportunities organisations benefit from, like reaching new audiences, securing donations, national PR, and encouraging future visits, to name a few.
Anyone and everyone would like to discover something new! There are over 300 events taking place in Norfolk alone, more than 150 of which are in Norwich.
Events range from talks to tours and family days out – there really is something for all ages and interests. The HODs festival is a dream for history buffs, but even if you’re not, you’re bound to find something to enjoy and be surprised by what might pique your interest!
The behind-the-scenes tours of iconic buildings like Earlham Hall, The Norwich Guildhall, St John the Baptist Cathedral, and Rosary Cemetery are always highly sought after.
It’s also wonderful to have attractions like Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse waive their entry fee for HODs. This gives families a chance to discover these places for free and try somewhere new.
However, we often find the lesser-known places and events surprise both ourselves and visitors – we say you shouldn’t rule anything out just because you don’t know about it, it’s more reason to go!
Heritage Open Days are for everyone- couples, families, solo travellers, history buffs, locals, visitors and more Image: Keiron Tovell
We’re thrilled to have new locations and organisations taking part for 2025, and we can’t wait to explore!
You’ll be able to step inside the rarely seen Temple at Holkham Park (Sunday 14 September, 11am – 3pm, drop-in), hidden in the woods near the obelisk.
If you visit Downham Market – or ‘The Gingerbread Town’ as it’s known on Sunday 21 September, they’ll have an array of events including guided walks, vintage bus rides, classic cars, re-enactments, folk dancing, live music and more!
And don’t miss the chance to explore Carrow House – a stunning Grade II listed building and former home of the Colman family. Now the Norwich Unity Hub, you can enjoy exclusive tours and creative workshops hosted by current resident organisations (dates and times vary).
It’s been 80 years since the end of WWII and we’re commemorating this special anniversary with an exhibition and event series in partnership with the American Library – Memorial to the 2nd Air Division, USAAF.
WWII is a war that is predominantly no longer remembered within living memory, so this project is really the final opportunity for us to preserve this important history.
Find out more about US Army Air Forces like the crew of the 458th Bomb Group at Horsham St Faith at the Silver Wings exhibition Image: 2nd Air Division Archive
We wanted to shine a light on the often-overlooked stories from this remarkable period in history. Silver Wings focuses on the American servicemen and women stationed in East Anglia, and the local communities who welcomed them. The exhibition not only celebrates these shared memories but also explores the lasting impact the US Army Air Forces have had on Norfolk’s heritage.
The so-called ‘Friendly Invasion’ brought significant cultural change – from new foods and music to dance and sport! That cultural imprint is still felt today, and the deep bonds formed during the war continue to resonate across Norfolk’s communities.
Mark your calendars for Saturday 13 September, where a 1940s-style street party will be coming to The Forum (10am – 4pm, free)- complete with swing dancing, military vehicles, live music, and food. It’s fun for all ages!
Plus, an exciting programme of talks, guided city walks, and exhibition tours will accompany the exhibition, bringing Norfolk’s rich wartime history to life and highlighting the lasting impact and legacy of the United States Army Air Forces across Norfolk.
Norfolk Heritage Open Days, coordinated by The Forum, is taking place from Friday 12 – Sunday 21 September 2025. Tickets for bookable events will be released on Wednesday 27 August at 10am. Check out the events programme and book tickets via their website.
As part of HODs, the Silver Wings exhibition will be in The Forum from 12 – 21 September 2025, with special Silver Wings events across the week.
